I’ve been a very bad blogger of late. Hardly a blogger at all really. And this just a month or so removed from my Absentee Blogger post.
Part of the problem, as alluded to in another recent post, is that I can’t really blog much about our golf training center right now. The things I’m working on don’t allow for much public disclosure. And since the center is my passion, and what I love to blog about, when I can’t write about it, there’s a tendency to write less.
I look forward to a time when my day-to-day tasks can be more public and appropriate for publication via this blog and other avenues.
I ran 10 kms (10K) late Saturday afternoon. I’ve been getting back into running over the last few years and recently started running in a few organized/charity 5Ks. On Saturday, I had planned to run 5K. But before my run, I started considering whether I should do the route twice, and do 10K for the first time in a very long time.
At about the 4.5 km mark, where I had to decide whether to head back home or continue, I decided to continue. I felt good. Somewhere close to the 6.5 km mark I started to lose my form. My legs tired and I started getting a little sloppy. After another 2 km my legs were starting to get sore, partly from the extra exertion, and partly due to my poor form. I corrected as best I could, and finished fairly strong.
I’m glad I did it and will likely do so again. Setting the challenge and then meeting it, was enjoyable.
And lastly, I play a little pick-up hockey late Tuesday afternoons. This evening I had a very delightful opportunity to talk a little hockey with an exceptional young man. He was just a real joy to be with. Very polite and full of life. A strong skater and solid on the puck too. He definitely stands out both on and off the ice. As you can tell, he made quite a lasting impression. I’m hoping, someday, for at least a little while, he’ll work in one of our golf training centers. His future is very bright and he’ll succeed at whatever he tackles in life. I walked away feeling richer for having met him, and also inspired to be just a little more “full of life”, like him.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Monday, October 22, 2007
The Wise Words of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
I met with a true rainmaker on Friday, and was happily reminded of these famous and powerful words by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
“Until one is committed, there is always hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help that would never have otherwise occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising to one's favor all manner of unforeseen accidents and meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”
This prompted me to do a quick web search for other nuggets from this 18th century poet, novelist, playwright and philosopher.
“For a contented life:
Health enough to make work a pleasure.
Wealth enough to support your needs.
Strength to battle with difficulties and overcome them.
Grace enough to confess your sins and forsake them.
Patience enough to toil until some good is accomplished.
Charity enough to see some good in your neighbor.
Love enough to move you to be useful and helpful to others.
Faith enough to make real the things of God.
Hope enough to remove all anxious fears concerning your future.”
“Nothing shows our character more than what we laugh at.”
“We must not hope to be mowers,
And to gather the ripe gold ears,
Unless we have first been sowers
And watered the furrows with tears.
It is not just as we take it,
This mystical world of ours,
Life's field will yield as we make it
A harvest of thorns or of flowers.”
“They are happiest, be they king or peasant, who find peace in their home.”
“Many people take no care of their money till they come nearly to the end of it,
and others do just the same with their time.”
“Treat people as if they were what they should be,
and you help them become what they are capable of becoming.”
I sourced these quotes from a single web site (www.livinglifefully.com).
“Until one is committed, there is always hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help that would never have otherwise occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising to one's favor all manner of unforeseen accidents and meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”
This prompted me to do a quick web search for other nuggets from this 18th century poet, novelist, playwright and philosopher.
“For a contented life:
Health enough to make work a pleasure.
Wealth enough to support your needs.
Strength to battle with difficulties and overcome them.
Grace enough to confess your sins and forsake them.
Patience enough to toil until some good is accomplished.
Charity enough to see some good in your neighbor.
Love enough to move you to be useful and helpful to others.
Faith enough to make real the things of God.
Hope enough to remove all anxious fears concerning your future.”
“Nothing shows our character more than what we laugh at.”
“We must not hope to be mowers,
And to gather the ripe gold ears,
Unless we have first been sowers
And watered the furrows with tears.
It is not just as we take it,
This mystical world of ours,
Life's field will yield as we make it
A harvest of thorns or of flowers.”
“They are happiest, be they king or peasant, who find peace in their home.”
“Many people take no care of their money till they come nearly to the end of it,
and others do just the same with their time.”
“Treat people as if they were what they should be,
and you help them become what they are capable of becoming.”
I sourced these quotes from a single web site (www.livinglifefully.com).
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Adoption
A friend asked me recently why I haven’t blogged a lot about the center – Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo – lately. The answer is fairly straightforward. I simply can’t. The things we’re working on right now, the current day-to-day tasks, are simply not for public consumption.
From the very beginnings of this blog I’ve strived to very open and forthright. But there will be times, and this is just such a time, when I must be a little quiet about the daily activities within our business.
I look forward to a time, soon, when I’ll be able to blog more freely about the daily triumphs and opportunities.
I spoke to my parents this evening. They live approximately 200 kms away, so there are more phone calls than face to face visits. And Sunday evenings seems to be their preferred time for a chat.
They told me that one of my distant cousins had passed away. At one point, last spring, she thought she had Celiac Disease. My eldest thrives with Celiac Disease, so she called me to ask a few questions. I hadn’t spoken to her much and did my best to help. She didn’t have Celiac.
The funeral is Tuesday, with visitation on Monday afternoon and evening.
The call, as well as other recent conversations, lead me to think about family. I entered the Southern family via an adoption. My parents adopted me when I was an infant.
There are times when my connection to the Southern family seems tenuous. You see, we’re not a close family by any stretch of the imagination. For the most part each set of siblings and parents seem to get along. But when the family stretches out to cousins, there seem to be little fiefdoms, age-old quarrels and misunderstandings.
My parents do their best to stay in touch with most of their cousins, and thus I get updates and, to some extent, stay in touch with many of my cousins also. But what happens when my parents move on from this life? My connection is via them.
I wonder if, when my parents have moved on, I will feel somewhat family-less. And I wonder what that might feel like.
It seems to me, for parents of sons and daughters who’ve been adopted, and I chose those words very carefully, it seems to me that it’s vitally important that those parents ensure that their sons and daughters build strong relationships with their extended family, with their cousins and aunts and uncles. Those sons and daughters will benefit from those relationships when their parents leave this life.
As for choosing those words carefully, as a son that was adopted, I firmly believe that terms like “adoptive parent” and “adopted children” are both inaccurate and hurtful. Adoption is an act, not a label and certainly not an adjective. Parents that adopt are not “adoptive parents.” They’re parents. Sons and daughters that have entered a family via an adoption are not “adopted sons” or “adopted daughters.” They’re sons and they’re daughters. Every child should know the comfort and security of having a “mom,” not an “adoptive mom,” and a “dad,” not an “adoptive dad.”
Somewhere out there, for each child that has experienced and adoption, there may be a “birth mom” and a “birth dad.” That’s fine. But with the child on a daily basis, doing all of the mom things and all of the dad things, is simply a “mom” and a “dad.” It must be that simple.
From the very beginnings of this blog I’ve strived to very open and forthright. But there will be times, and this is just such a time, when I must be a little quiet about the daily activities within our business.
I look forward to a time, soon, when I’ll be able to blog more freely about the daily triumphs and opportunities.
I spoke to my parents this evening. They live approximately 200 kms away, so there are more phone calls than face to face visits. And Sunday evenings seems to be their preferred time for a chat.
They told me that one of my distant cousins had passed away. At one point, last spring, she thought she had Celiac Disease. My eldest thrives with Celiac Disease, so she called me to ask a few questions. I hadn’t spoken to her much and did my best to help. She didn’t have Celiac.
The funeral is Tuesday, with visitation on Monday afternoon and evening.
The call, as well as other recent conversations, lead me to think about family. I entered the Southern family via an adoption. My parents adopted me when I was an infant.
There are times when my connection to the Southern family seems tenuous. You see, we’re not a close family by any stretch of the imagination. For the most part each set of siblings and parents seem to get along. But when the family stretches out to cousins, there seem to be little fiefdoms, age-old quarrels and misunderstandings.
My parents do their best to stay in touch with most of their cousins, and thus I get updates and, to some extent, stay in touch with many of my cousins also. But what happens when my parents move on from this life? My connection is via them.
I wonder if, when my parents have moved on, I will feel somewhat family-less. And I wonder what that might feel like.
It seems to me, for parents of sons and daughters who’ve been adopted, and I chose those words very carefully, it seems to me that it’s vitally important that those parents ensure that their sons and daughters build strong relationships with their extended family, with their cousins and aunts and uncles. Those sons and daughters will benefit from those relationships when their parents leave this life.
As for choosing those words carefully, as a son that was adopted, I firmly believe that terms like “adoptive parent” and “adopted children” are both inaccurate and hurtful. Adoption is an act, not a label and certainly not an adjective. Parents that adopt are not “adoptive parents.” They’re parents. Sons and daughters that have entered a family via an adoption are not “adopted sons” or “adopted daughters.” They’re sons and they’re daughters. Every child should know the comfort and security of having a “mom,” not an “adoptive mom,” and a “dad,” not an “adoptive dad.”
Somewhere out there, for each child that has experienced and adoption, there may be a “birth mom” and a “birth dad.” That’s fine. But with the child on a daily basis, doing all of the mom things and all of the dad things, is simply a “mom” and a “dad.” It must be that simple.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Golf More Difficult To "Master"?
The average PGA major champion won at age 31.3, having played golf, and no doubt worked at the sport for approximately 23 years. For the LPGA the numbers are age 25.5 and approximately 16.5 years of playing, training, practicing, etc.
Of course, when describing a major champion on the LPGA or PGA tour the term "average" seems ridiculous. We're talking about average ages, not average golfers!
As reported in the September 2007 issue of the RCGA's Golf Canada (p. 34), the U.S. Olympian's Association studied "all sports" between 1984 and 1998. They found it "took athletes an average of 10 years of specific sport training to reach an international level of competitiveness."
The PGA of America then looked specifically at golf, as far back as the Bobby Jones era.
Ten years ("all sports") versus 16.5 years (female golfers) and 23 years (male golfers). Wow!
On the surface this data would seem to suggest that mastery of golf is more challenging, or simply takes much longer than mastery of other sports. The industry may choose to look inward and question teaching methods, training, coaching, etc. Golf could take this data and initiate a revolution, assuming we must usher along talented players with more urgency and proficiency. We must reduce the TTM (Time To Major)!
I'm not convinced.
I suspect the two studies have used dramatically different yard sticks. Having not read the studies, there's certainly some conjecture herein. The Olympian study apparently speaks of reaching an "international elite level of competitiveness" while the PGA study focuses on major champions.
Those are two differing measures. A golfer can compete at an "international elite level" for his/her entire career and never win a major. The media loves to pass along the label of the "current best player to never win a major." A few years ago some experts wondered if Phil Mickelson would ever hoist a major trophy. None ever questioned his status as an "international elite" golfer!
The devil, as they say, lies in the details. How did the Olympian study actually measure this "international elite level" in each sport? And how does that compare with winning an LPGA or PGA major?
I've searched for the U.S. Olympian's Association study but have not found it.
In the meantime, we at Parmasters will continue to teach our clients how to hit the ball straight, guaranteed. Perhaps we'll have to wait some 16 or 23 years before one of our Straight-Line(TM) golfers wins a major.
I suspect the wait will be much shorter!
Of course, when describing a major champion on the LPGA or PGA tour the term "average" seems ridiculous. We're talking about average ages, not average golfers!
As reported in the September 2007 issue of the RCGA's Golf Canada (p. 34), the U.S. Olympian's Association studied "all sports" between 1984 and 1998. They found it "took athletes an average of 10 years of specific sport training to reach an international level of competitiveness."
The PGA of America then looked specifically at golf, as far back as the Bobby Jones era.
Ten years ("all sports") versus 16.5 years (female golfers) and 23 years (male golfers). Wow!
On the surface this data would seem to suggest that mastery of golf is more challenging, or simply takes much longer than mastery of other sports. The industry may choose to look inward and question teaching methods, training, coaching, etc. Golf could take this data and initiate a revolution, assuming we must usher along talented players with more urgency and proficiency. We must reduce the TTM (Time To Major)!
I'm not convinced.
I suspect the two studies have used dramatically different yard sticks. Having not read the studies, there's certainly some conjecture herein. The Olympian study apparently speaks of reaching an "international elite level of competitiveness" while the PGA study focuses on major champions.
Those are two differing measures. A golfer can compete at an "international elite level" for his/her entire career and never win a major. The media loves to pass along the label of the "current best player to never win a major." A few years ago some experts wondered if Phil Mickelson would ever hoist a major trophy. None ever questioned his status as an "international elite" golfer!
The devil, as they say, lies in the details. How did the Olympian study actually measure this "international elite level" in each sport? And how does that compare with winning an LPGA or PGA major?
I've searched for the U.S. Olympian's Association study but have not found it.
In the meantime, we at Parmasters will continue to teach our clients how to hit the ball straight, guaranteed. Perhaps we'll have to wait some 16 or 23 years before one of our Straight-Line(TM) golfers wins a major.
I suspect the wait will be much shorter!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Golf in Verse
I found these to be quite enjoyable. Hopefully you will as well. I found them at Pasturegolf.com.
I've tried all the tips and received much instruction.
It didn't help at all so I used deduction.
I figured it out, the thing my game lacks.
I'll never be a pro cause I can't stand the slacks.
- John Prince
Some golfers blast their ball from traps
With one adroit explosion,
But others, out in ten perhaps,
Depend upon erosion.
- Richard Armour, Golf is a Four-Letter Word (1962)
Some golfers lie awake at night
And brood on what went wrong;
I'd rather think of what went right.
It doesn't take as long.
- Dick Emmons
When hitting wedge shots, I've a flair
That's turning my hair gray;
They stop, I swear, right next to where
The pin was...yesterday.
- Dick Emmons
I sank a long and curling putt,
It's like I've seldom seen;
It would have helped my scoring but,
'Twas on the practice green.
-Richard Armour, Golf is a Four-Letter Word
If only I kept my eye on the ball,
Looking downward as does the pro there,
I might not see where it was going, at all,
But there might be a chance it would go there.
- Richard Armour, Golf is a Four-Letter Word
And thus, with self-deception bland,
We mourn the fours that should have been,
Forgetting, on the other hand,
The luck that helped us through the green;
Calmly accepting as our due
The four-hole which we fluked in two.
- Thomas Risk, The Lyric of the Links
I've tried all the tips and received much instruction.
It didn't help at all so I used deduction.
I figured it out, the thing my game lacks.
I'll never be a pro cause I can't stand the slacks.
- John Prince
Some golfers blast their ball from traps
With one adroit explosion,
But others, out in ten perhaps,
Depend upon erosion.
- Richard Armour, Golf is a Four-Letter Word (1962)
Some golfers lie awake at night
And brood on what went wrong;
I'd rather think of what went right.
It doesn't take as long.
- Dick Emmons
When hitting wedge shots, I've a flair
That's turning my hair gray;
They stop, I swear, right next to where
The pin was...yesterday.
- Dick Emmons
I sank a long and curling putt,
It's like I've seldom seen;
It would have helped my scoring but,
'Twas on the practice green.
-Richard Armour, Golf is a Four-Letter Word
If only I kept my eye on the ball,
Looking downward as does the pro there,
I might not see where it was going, at all,
But there might be a chance it would go there.
- Richard Armour, Golf is a Four-Letter Word
And thus, with self-deception bland,
We mourn the fours that should have been,
Forgetting, on the other hand,
The luck that helped us through the green;
Calmly accepting as our due
The four-hole which we fluked in two.
- Thomas Risk, The Lyric of the Links
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Arson in Cannington, Ontario
My home town, Cannington, Ontario, awoke this past Sunday morning to some tragic news. Two churches were on fire, along with a few automobiles.
Cannington is a small town, with a population hovering around 1,000. I've joked that there are only 999 since I left in 1985. Everyone knows everyone. As I told a close friend recently, I estimate that I have a memory of some sort attached to at least two-thirds of the homes in town.
There are, or were, four churches in Cannington, all Christian: United, Baptist, Anglican and Presbyterian.
The Presbyterian church was destroyed. The United church, my childhood church, suffered significant damage in the lower level.
Of course, I'm using the term "church" rather loosely to signify "church building." "Church" more accurately signifies the people, the members. Happily, in that sense, the "churches", the people, were not harmed.
Of course, arson is suspected. A local 17 year old male has been charged.
You can learn more about this tragedy within the news articles below. I've included the full text of one article and links to others. (My apologies as these links will no doubt go stale quickly.)
- 680 News
- A-Channel News (video)
- CTV News
- Toronto Sun
- Blog entry by a local citizen
Youth charged in rash of Cannington fires
(From newsdurhamregion.com.)
Tue Oct 09, 2007
By: By Jeff Hayward
CANNINGTON -- A 17-year-old Cannington boy is facing 15 charges in connection with $4 million in arson damages, including a fire that destroyed a historic church early Sunday morning.
Durham Regional Police responded to multiple calls in the Laidlaw Street area in Cannington on Sunday, Oct. 7, starting at approximately 4 a.m. Officers arrived to find four vehicles on fire, and shortly after were alerted about a fire at Trinity United Church. Within the hour, another vehicle was set on fire along with the Knox Presbyterian Church, according to police.
Shortly after, officers assisted by the canine unit tracked a suspect to a nearby home and arrested the youth, according to police. The 17-year-old, who cannot be named under the Youth Justice Act, is charged with two counts of break, enter and commit-arson, seven counts of arson, five counts of mischief and a charge of breach of recognizance.
The damage to the Presbyterian church, a 144-year-old building, required the structure to be taken down. Demolition crews were on scene Tuesday morning to start the process, which Brock firefighters said could take days.
Lay Pastor Judy Hein was there to witness the remainder of her church being destroyed.
"This is people's lives and memories," she said of the church. She said she will have to meet with the church congregation to determine where services will be held in the near future, noting other churches in the area have been supportive. "It's going to take weeks to sort out."
Ms. Hein smiled with the fact furniture inside, including pews over 100 years old, were salvaged relatively undamaged.
Also watching the church come down was Stewart Arksey, who said he has lived in Cannington all his life. "I've never seen anything like this," he said of the fire.
Meanwhile, the Presbyterian community wasn't without a meeting place on the long Thanksgiving weekend. Cannington residents Doreen and Grant Oliver, also witnessing the demolition, invited 23 members of the church into their home.
Ms. Hein, who became emotional for a short time as she watched crews prepare to bring down the old building, explained the church had recently been renovated inside. She said she received a call Sunday at about 4 a.m. from the Office of the Fire Marshal, and firefighters returned to the site again in the afternoon to battle "hot spots" in the building.
Firefighters on scene did not say if the Trinity United Church, two blocks from Knox Presbyterian, will face a similar fate. But a drive-by of the building revealed minimal visible exterior damage. The Sunday service of the United Church was moved to the Cannington Lions' Hall, said Ms. Hein.
Police are pegging the collective damage from the blazes at $4 million. No injuries were reported.
A police command post has been set up on the site of the Knox Presbyterian Church at the corner of Cameron Street and Peace Street in Cannington. Anyone with information about the fire can visit that location or contact Det. Sgt. Herb Curwain at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2674. Anonymous tips can be made to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.
Cannington is a small town, with a population hovering around 1,000. I've joked that there are only 999 since I left in 1985. Everyone knows everyone. As I told a close friend recently, I estimate that I have a memory of some sort attached to at least two-thirds of the homes in town.
There are, or were, four churches in Cannington, all Christian: United, Baptist, Anglican and Presbyterian.
The Presbyterian church was destroyed. The United church, my childhood church, suffered significant damage in the lower level.
Of course, I'm using the term "church" rather loosely to signify "church building." "Church" more accurately signifies the people, the members. Happily, in that sense, the "churches", the people, were not harmed.
Of course, arson is suspected. A local 17 year old male has been charged.
You can learn more about this tragedy within the news articles below. I've included the full text of one article and links to others. (My apologies as these links will no doubt go stale quickly.)
- 680 News
- A-Channel News (video)
- CTV News
- Toronto Sun
- Blog entry by a local citizen
Youth charged in rash of Cannington fires
(From newsdurhamregion.com.)
Tue Oct 09, 2007
By: By Jeff Hayward
CANNINGTON -- A 17-year-old Cannington boy is facing 15 charges in connection with $4 million in arson damages, including a fire that destroyed a historic church early Sunday morning.
Durham Regional Police responded to multiple calls in the Laidlaw Street area in Cannington on Sunday, Oct. 7, starting at approximately 4 a.m. Officers arrived to find four vehicles on fire, and shortly after were alerted about a fire at Trinity United Church. Within the hour, another vehicle was set on fire along with the Knox Presbyterian Church, according to police.
Shortly after, officers assisted by the canine unit tracked a suspect to a nearby home and arrested the youth, according to police. The 17-year-old, who cannot be named under the Youth Justice Act, is charged with two counts of break, enter and commit-arson, seven counts of arson, five counts of mischief and a charge of breach of recognizance.
The damage to the Presbyterian church, a 144-year-old building, required the structure to be taken down. Demolition crews were on scene Tuesday morning to start the process, which Brock firefighters said could take days.
Lay Pastor Judy Hein was there to witness the remainder of her church being destroyed.
"This is people's lives and memories," she said of the church. She said she will have to meet with the church congregation to determine where services will be held in the near future, noting other churches in the area have been supportive. "It's going to take weeks to sort out."
Ms. Hein smiled with the fact furniture inside, including pews over 100 years old, were salvaged relatively undamaged.
Also watching the church come down was Stewart Arksey, who said he has lived in Cannington all his life. "I've never seen anything like this," he said of the fire.
Meanwhile, the Presbyterian community wasn't without a meeting place on the long Thanksgiving weekend. Cannington residents Doreen and Grant Oliver, also witnessing the demolition, invited 23 members of the church into their home.
Ms. Hein, who became emotional for a short time as she watched crews prepare to bring down the old building, explained the church had recently been renovated inside. She said she received a call Sunday at about 4 a.m. from the Office of the Fire Marshal, and firefighters returned to the site again in the afternoon to battle "hot spots" in the building.
Firefighters on scene did not say if the Trinity United Church, two blocks from Knox Presbyterian, will face a similar fate. But a drive-by of the building revealed minimal visible exterior damage. The Sunday service of the United Church was moved to the Cannington Lions' Hall, said Ms. Hein.
Police are pegging the collective damage from the blazes at $4 million. No injuries were reported.
A police command post has been set up on the site of the Knox Presbyterian Church at the corner of Cameron Street and Peace Street in Cannington. Anyone with information about the fire can visit that location or contact Det. Sgt. Herb Curwain at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2674. Anonymous tips can be made to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Mill Run, near Uxbridge, Ontario
Happy (belated) Thanksgiving to all! The temperatures made it seem more like Canada Day than Thanksgiving!
I competed in the 10th or 11th staging of the Peace Street Classic golf tournament yesterday. It's a prestigious event, an invitational tournament restricted to only the highest calibre of poor golfers.
To qualify you must:
- have grown up (or atleast aged) on Peace Street in Cannington, Ontario
- said growing (or merely aging) must have occured between 1965 and 1985
- your initials must be JB or SS
- you must have spent countless hours playing road hockey or riding your bike up and down Peace Street
- you must have spent even more hours playing minor hockey through the winter (and fall and spring) in the local barn-like arena (still standing)
Jeff, the JB in the group, lives in the Newmarket area now and has but one tie left to Cannington. His paternal grandmother resides in the local nursing home. The family home, located a three-quarter lob wedge north of my childhood home, was sold a few years ago. His mother is in Lindsay.
We meet a few times each year and compete in match play for the coveted hardware. Oh yes, there is hardware, and it is coveted!
Yesterday was my first victory since the coveted hardware was established. I didn't play all that well. Jeff just struggled a little more than normal.
We played in a beautiful fall setting just west of Uxbridge, Ontario. The course was Mill Run. I believe you can find it at golfmillrun.com or .ca. We played the Wheel nine and the Grind nine.
The leaves were a beautiful colour. The elevation changes made for wonderful vistas, especially on the par-5 15th on the Grind nine, a hole I birdied.
Our 10th hole, number 1 on the Grind nine, is a fun, short par-4 with a tough green backed by an amazing patch of Sumac.
The leaves were amazing colours. Of course, perhaps I'm biased. I love Sumac!
I competed in the 10th or 11th staging of the Peace Street Classic golf tournament yesterday. It's a prestigious event, an invitational tournament restricted to only the highest calibre of poor golfers.
To qualify you must:
- have grown up (or atleast aged) on Peace Street in Cannington, Ontario
- said growing (or merely aging) must have occured between 1965 and 1985
- your initials must be JB or SS
- you must have spent countless hours playing road hockey or riding your bike up and down Peace Street
- you must have spent even more hours playing minor hockey through the winter (and fall and spring) in the local barn-like arena (still standing)
Jeff, the JB in the group, lives in the Newmarket area now and has but one tie left to Cannington. His paternal grandmother resides in the local nursing home. The family home, located a three-quarter lob wedge north of my childhood home, was sold a few years ago. His mother is in Lindsay.
We meet a few times each year and compete in match play for the coveted hardware. Oh yes, there is hardware, and it is coveted!
Yesterday was my first victory since the coveted hardware was established. I didn't play all that well. Jeff just struggled a little more than normal.
We played in a beautiful fall setting just west of Uxbridge, Ontario. The course was Mill Run. I believe you can find it at golfmillrun.com or .ca. We played the Wheel nine and the Grind nine.
The leaves were a beautiful colour. The elevation changes made for wonderful vistas, especially on the par-5 15th on the Grind nine, a hole I birdied.
Our 10th hole, number 1 on the Grind nine, is a fun, short par-4 with a tough green backed by an amazing patch of Sumac.
The leaves were amazing colours. Of course, perhaps I'm biased. I love Sumac!
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Advancing (Age) with Golf
I read with interest a recent article in the RCGA’s Golf Canada titled “Game of a Lifetime.”
“A York University stuffy has concluded that golf does indeed live up to its reputation as the game of a lifetime, good news for baby boomer golfers looking to stay active despite turning 60.”
Joe Baker, a professor at York, studied 96 PGA Tour golfers, each whom had logged at least 12 years on the tour. The study looked at “scoring average, driving distance, driving accuracy, greens in regulation, putts per round and number of competitive rounds played.”
Baker concluded that “performance in golfing can be maintained to a much greater extent than performance in activities relying on biologically-constrained abilities.”
Other conclusions included:
- Among the statistics studied, driving distance and greens in regulation declined most rapidly with age
- Declines in scoring average and putts per round were “minimal”
- Driving accuracy “improved a little for players past the age of 50”
From a business perspective, as we work towards the opening of Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo, I obviously find this data encouraging. We’ve all always known that golf can be played, and even mastered, by those of advanced years, even if the game is discovered late in life.
However, as an organization that guarantees to deliver a 25% reduction in your handicap, or your money back, we’re very happy to hear that scoring average suffers from only a “minimal” decline as a golfer ages.
And of course, on a personal note, since I don’t get to play much golf now, and I’m not sure if/when I will play very much, I’m buoyed by the prospect of playing well for quite some time to come.
For now, keep it in the short grass, especially ye who are 50+!
“A York University stuffy has concluded that golf does indeed live up to its reputation as the game of a lifetime, good news for baby boomer golfers looking to stay active despite turning 60.”
Joe Baker, a professor at York, studied 96 PGA Tour golfers, each whom had logged at least 12 years on the tour. The study looked at “scoring average, driving distance, driving accuracy, greens in regulation, putts per round and number of competitive rounds played.”
Baker concluded that “performance in golfing can be maintained to a much greater extent than performance in activities relying on biologically-constrained abilities.”
Other conclusions included:
- Among the statistics studied, driving distance and greens in regulation declined most rapidly with age
- Declines in scoring average and putts per round were “minimal”
- Driving accuracy “improved a little for players past the age of 50”
From a business perspective, as we work towards the opening of Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo, I obviously find this data encouraging. We’ve all always known that golf can be played, and even mastered, by those of advanced years, even if the game is discovered late in life.
However, as an organization that guarantees to deliver a 25% reduction in your handicap, or your money back, we’re very happy to hear that scoring average suffers from only a “minimal” decline as a golfer ages.
And of course, on a personal note, since I don’t get to play much golf now, and I’m not sure if/when I will play very much, I’m buoyed by the prospect of playing well for quite some time to come.
For now, keep it in the short grass, especially ye who are 50+!
Friday, October 05, 2007
Oktoberfest
I’ve just returned from my eldest son’s first hockey practice. Well, not officially his first, just his first for this season. He’s played defense for years but may play right wing this coming season. It was nice to hear him so excited about the coaching staff, the team and the season that lies before him.
Earlier today I attended – for the very first time – the official keg tapping that kicks off Oktoberfest. Wunderbar! I’d always wanted to attend, but never found the time.
This year I was also interested in how the festivities affected the downtown core. The event was held, and I guess is always held, in the civic square in front of Kitchener City Hall. King Street was closed in front of City Hall, but open elsewhere. There’s a temporary (tent) fest hall on Frederick Street, between King and Duke Streets, and other installations, also on Frederick, between King and Charles Streets.
Thinking pessimistically, I might lament that these temporary road closures will make life difficult for our members and other clients as they enter and exit Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo, to be located within Market Square at the corner of King and Frederick Streets. However, I don’t like to think pessimistically.
In reality, Oktoberfest is great for the downtown core, and it will be great for our center and our members and clients as well. While ingress and egress may be slightly more challenging during Oktoberfest and other festivals, the festivals themselves offer countless benefits. I can’t wait till next year, to see what our staff comes up with as we help Kitchener-Waterloo celebrate Oktoberfest!
For now, it’s soon time to call it a night.
Earlier today I attended – for the very first time – the official keg tapping that kicks off Oktoberfest. Wunderbar! I’d always wanted to attend, but never found the time.
This year I was also interested in how the festivities affected the downtown core. The event was held, and I guess is always held, in the civic square in front of Kitchener City Hall. King Street was closed in front of City Hall, but open elsewhere. There’s a temporary (tent) fest hall on Frederick Street, between King and Duke Streets, and other installations, also on Frederick, between King and Charles Streets.
Thinking pessimistically, I might lament that these temporary road closures will make life difficult for our members and other clients as they enter and exit Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo, to be located within Market Square at the corner of King and Frederick Streets. However, I don’t like to think pessimistically.
In reality, Oktoberfest is great for the downtown core, and it will be great for our center and our members and clients as well. While ingress and egress may be slightly more challenging during Oktoberfest and other festivals, the festivals themselves offer countless benefits. I can’t wait till next year, to see what our staff comes up with as we help Kitchener-Waterloo celebrate Oktoberfest!
For now, it’s soon time to call it a night.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Causes
I've been thinking a little lately about the causes we will support.
Our franchisor supports Right To Play (I'd provide a link but I'm blogging via my Blackberry.). For every golf lesson we provide, one dollar goes to Right To Play. They use sport and play in worn torn areas of the world to help children cope, to give them hope and to build bridges in regions where walls are more common.
Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo will offer an amazing, open and inviting space. We will also have access to media, various golf-themed events and a large, thoughtful membership. We have a lot to offer, and a lot of reasons to give back to our full capability.
My eldest son lives with ... no, he thrives with Celiac Disease. That means he must ensure he doesn't eat wheat, rye, oats or barley. If he ingests as much as speck of flour he may become violently ill. I'll blog more about Celiac in the future. For this entry, suffice it to say that Celiac Disease is a cause I'd like to see us support.
Other loved ones and friends live and thrive with other challenges. There are many causes very near and dear to my heart.
I realize, of course, that we must prioritize and focus. We can't solve all the world's problems. If we try to do too much, we won't do much at all! And our primary focus must always be serving our members and other clients, and thus delivering an exceptional return to our shareholders.
We'll approach this in a very thoughtful and strategic manner. We simply want to ensure we maximize our positive impact both locally and globally.
Our franchisor supports Right To Play (I'd provide a link but I'm blogging via my Blackberry.). For every golf lesson we provide, one dollar goes to Right To Play. They use sport and play in worn torn areas of the world to help children cope, to give them hope and to build bridges in regions where walls are more common.
Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo will offer an amazing, open and inviting space. We will also have access to media, various golf-themed events and a large, thoughtful membership. We have a lot to offer, and a lot of reasons to give back to our full capability.
My eldest son lives with ... no, he thrives with Celiac Disease. That means he must ensure he doesn't eat wheat, rye, oats or barley. If he ingests as much as speck of flour he may become violently ill. I'll blog more about Celiac in the future. For this entry, suffice it to say that Celiac Disease is a cause I'd like to see us support.
Other loved ones and friends live and thrive with other challenges. There are many causes very near and dear to my heart.
I realize, of course, that we must prioritize and focus. We can't solve all the world's problems. If we try to do too much, we won't do much at all! And our primary focus must always be serving our members and other clients, and thus delivering an exceptional return to our shareholders.
We'll approach this in a very thoughtful and strategic manner. We simply want to ensure we maximize our positive impact both locally and globally.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Absentee Blogger
In posting this entry tonight, I’ve avoided going a full two weeks since my last blog post! Two weeks!
I’ve never before had such a long stretch without a blog post.
There are many factors or influencers that motivate me to write and post entries. For the most part, I feel an urge to express some thought(s) or opinion, or to pass along some information, etc. But there is also some blog/peer pressure in the blogosphere. And I even feel guilt at times, like now, when it’s been a really long time between posts.
According to Blogger I’ve posted 183 entries since this blog was established on September 4, 2006. September 2006, as it turns out, was a month that saw the beginning of several personal journeys, including this blog. In some ways it seems like yesterday. In others, it truly seems like a lifetime has passed. But, of course, that’s another story.
There were 69 blog entries in 2006 and 114 so far in 2007. A quick calculation reveals 393 days, inclusive, in that period, and thus one post/entry every 2.1 days (i.e. 393/183) on average.
I don’t really have much of an explanation for my being a recent absentee blogger. It’s certainly a busy time, but not as busy as many other periods in the past 393 days. And it’s certainly a stressful time, and yes perhaps a little more stressful than any other period in the past 393 days, but only slightly more stressful. There’s a lot happening within the normal spheres of thought and discourse that I tend to blog about (e.g. Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo, the local golf scene, professional golf, day to day life, etc.), so there would seem to be lots of topics and lots to say. And yet, blogging temporarily moved to a lower priority.
I believe in the power of routines. We all love our routines and don’t appreciate it much when our routines are interrupted or disrupted. Humans are creatures of habit, for the most part shunning change.
Routines can serve both a positive purpose (i.e. getting into a routine of posting blog entries regularly) or they can be less positive (i.e. routinely typing on a Blackberry when one should be focusing elsewhere).
I’ve heard that it takes some 21 days/iterations to form a habit. So, if I posted daily for 21 days … hmmm.
I’ve never before had such a long stretch without a blog post.
There are many factors or influencers that motivate me to write and post entries. For the most part, I feel an urge to express some thought(s) or opinion, or to pass along some information, etc. But there is also some blog/peer pressure in the blogosphere. And I even feel guilt at times, like now, when it’s been a really long time between posts.
According to Blogger I’ve posted 183 entries since this blog was established on September 4, 2006. September 2006, as it turns out, was a month that saw the beginning of several personal journeys, including this blog. In some ways it seems like yesterday. In others, it truly seems like a lifetime has passed. But, of course, that’s another story.
There were 69 blog entries in 2006 and 114 so far in 2007. A quick calculation reveals 393 days, inclusive, in that period, and thus one post/entry every 2.1 days (i.e. 393/183) on average.
I don’t really have much of an explanation for my being a recent absentee blogger. It’s certainly a busy time, but not as busy as many other periods in the past 393 days. And it’s certainly a stressful time, and yes perhaps a little more stressful than any other period in the past 393 days, but only slightly more stressful. There’s a lot happening within the normal spheres of thought and discourse that I tend to blog about (e.g. Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo, the local golf scene, professional golf, day to day life, etc.), so there would seem to be lots of topics and lots to say. And yet, blogging temporarily moved to a lower priority.
I believe in the power of routines. We all love our routines and don’t appreciate it much when our routines are interrupted or disrupted. Humans are creatures of habit, for the most part shunning change.
Routines can serve both a positive purpose (i.e. getting into a routine of posting blog entries regularly) or they can be less positive (i.e. routinely typing on a Blackberry when one should be focusing elsewhere).
I’ve heard that it takes some 21 days/iterations to form a habit. So, if I posted daily for 21 days … hmmm.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Old Friends
I spoke with several old friends today. Not old in the age sense! Just good friends that I’ve known as friends for a long time.
Some of these are very close and I see them frequently. Others aren’t quite as close, and maybe I don’t see them quite so frequently, but they’re still dear old friends.
There’s a particular comfort in spending time with old friends that is hard to describe and yet, hopefully, quite familiar to us all. You can say what you think and what you feel. You don’t worry about any form of judgment whatsoever. You can laugh about old shared jokes and experiences, and freely make up new jokes and experiences on the fly. Old friends are comfortable, like a well worn pair of jeans or shoes that you just don’t ever want to part with.
Each of these old-friend encounters was business related. An update. A consultation. A gut check. A second opinion. A very honest second opinion.
Old friends are trusted.
I also got to spend some precious time, late in the day, with a new friend. It was a wonderful juxtaposition. This young individual impressed me to no end. I suspect, in fact I believe that this new friendship will grow substantially for the rest of our lives. And someday, when I speak or write of old friends, this young individual will be top of mind.
For all old friends were once new friends, young friends.
"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." –Anais Nin, 20th century writer and diarist
Some of these are very close and I see them frequently. Others aren’t quite as close, and maybe I don’t see them quite so frequently, but they’re still dear old friends.
There’s a particular comfort in spending time with old friends that is hard to describe and yet, hopefully, quite familiar to us all. You can say what you think and what you feel. You don’t worry about any form of judgment whatsoever. You can laugh about old shared jokes and experiences, and freely make up new jokes and experiences on the fly. Old friends are comfortable, like a well worn pair of jeans or shoes that you just don’t ever want to part with.
Each of these old-friend encounters was business related. An update. A consultation. A gut check. A second opinion. A very honest second opinion.
Old friends are trusted.
I also got to spend some precious time, late in the day, with a new friend. It was a wonderful juxtaposition. This young individual impressed me to no end. I suspect, in fact I believe that this new friendship will grow substantially for the rest of our lives. And someday, when I speak or write of old friends, this young individual will be top of mind.
For all old friends were once new friends, young friends.
"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." –Anais Nin, 20th century writer and diarist
Audit
It’s been a long day. And there’s still lots to do.
We’re in the middle of our first audit. I’ve spent a large part of the evening assembling files, papers, etc. Everything is well organized, so it didn’t take as long as it could have.
However, I’m sure through this audit process I’ll learn that certain items could be filed differently. There will be small changes to my systems to make the next audit easier.
We continue discussions with various leasing companies regarding our equipment needs. All signs suggest that we’re getting close to an agreement. Our suppliers have been very helpful, providing all of the information required by the leasing companies.
We closed our pool over the weekend. My boys have grown substantially over the summer – must have been all the rain and sun – and thus have become far more capable with various tasks around the house. It was nice working with them to close the pool. We also visited a local golf practice area and worked on their games.
I’ve been doing a lot of driving lately; visiting shareholders to have them sign a document. That occupied most of this morning. Only three more signatures to go now! Unfortunately, two of those shareholders are several hours away. Not sure when I’ll make that trek. Perhaps Canada Post will be faster and easier.
Well, back at it. Just one more task for tonight, and then a walk to clear my head. Early start tomorrow.
We’re in the middle of our first audit. I’ve spent a large part of the evening assembling files, papers, etc. Everything is well organized, so it didn’t take as long as it could have.
However, I’m sure through this audit process I’ll learn that certain items could be filed differently. There will be small changes to my systems to make the next audit easier.
We continue discussions with various leasing companies regarding our equipment needs. All signs suggest that we’re getting close to an agreement. Our suppliers have been very helpful, providing all of the information required by the leasing companies.
We closed our pool over the weekend. My boys have grown substantially over the summer – must have been all the rain and sun – and thus have become far more capable with various tasks around the house. It was nice working with them to close the pool. We also visited a local golf practice area and worked on their games.
I’ve been doing a lot of driving lately; visiting shareholders to have them sign a document. That occupied most of this morning. Only three more signatures to go now! Unfortunately, two of those shareholders are several hours away. Not sure when I’ll make that trek. Perhaps Canada Post will be faster and easier.
Well, back at it. Just one more task for tonight, and then a walk to clear my head. Early start tomorrow.
Monday, September 10, 2007
My First 5K
I ran in my first 5 km road race over the weekend. I’d never experienced such an event, so it was all new to me.
I had a fantastic time! Everything about the entire day was just perfect, from start to finish. And the start was very early! I wouldn’t have changed a thing. The event was really well organized and I thoroughly enjoyed the run. I can’t wait to do it again!
The rest of the weekend was spent in the office, working away. Lots to do, as always.
We’re now well into a provincial election campaign here in Ontario. I tend to follow current events fairly closely, but must admit that I get tired of reading the daily litany of promises and pledges that fills the newspaper each day during a campaign. I am hoping to do better during this campaign, and ensure my vote is suitably informed.
I wonder if the politicians will enjoy their race as much as I enjoyed the 5K. For their sake, I hope so.
I had a fantastic time! Everything about the entire day was just perfect, from start to finish. And the start was very early! I wouldn’t have changed a thing. The event was really well organized and I thoroughly enjoyed the run. I can’t wait to do it again!
The rest of the weekend was spent in the office, working away. Lots to do, as always.
We’re now well into a provincial election campaign here in Ontario. I tend to follow current events fairly closely, but must admit that I get tired of reading the daily litany of promises and pledges that fills the newspaper each day during a campaign. I am hoping to do better during this campaign, and ensure my vote is suitably informed.
I wonder if the politicians will enjoy their race as much as I enjoyed the 5K. For their sake, I hope so.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Unbelievable Math Problem
A friend sent the following “unbelievable math problem” via email the other day. It was one of those emails that have been traveling around the Internet for many years.
I decided that I’d try to decode the mysteries of this trick and, in doing so, perhaps refresh some of my early high school algebra. Since my sons will soon enter high school and may want some math help from yours truly, it seemed like a fun and perhaps helpful exercise.
Here’s the email:
Here is a math trick so unbelievable that it will stump you. Personally I would like to know who came up with this and why that person is not running the country.
1. Grab a calculator. (you won't be able to do this one in your head)
2. Key in the first three digits of your phone number (NOT the Area code)
3. Multiply by 80
4. Add 1
5. Multiply by 250
6. Add the last 4 digits of your phone number
7. Add the last 4 digits of your phone number again.
8. Subtract 250
9. Divide number by 2
Do you recognize the answer?
The answer is, of course, your seven digit phone number. Here’s an example, using the number 765-4321 for illustration purposes.
The first three digits are 765.
765 x 80 = 61,200
Add 1 to get 61,201
61201 x 250 = 15,300,250
Add the last four digits, or 4321, to get 15,304,571
Add the last four digits, or 4321, again to get 15,308,892
Subtract 250 to yield 15,308,642
Divide by 2 and we’re back to 7,654,321, or 765-4321
Very cool!
So, how does it work?
Well, clearly there are two variables: the first three digits of the phone number and the last four digits of the phone number. I called these “X” and “Y” respectively. The entire phone number I called “Z”.
Quickly you can see that the formula for z is:
Z = (X x 10,000) + Y
Why 10,000? Well, because we have to move the first three digits, or X, over to the left by four spaces/digits. We then add the last four digits, or Y.
So, in our example:
Z = (765 x 10,000) + 4,321 … which equals … 7,650,000 + 4,321 … which equals … 7,654,321 or 765-4321
Thus, our formula works. Indeed, Z = (X x 10,000) + Y.
My next step was to translate the directions in the email into an expression. Here it is:
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) + Y + Y - 250) / 2
Now all I had to do was adjust or simplify the above expression, as presented in the email, to Z = (X x 10,000) + Y.
I started by applying the division-by-2 to all elements within the braces.
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) / 2) + Y/2 + Y/2 - 250/2
This can be quickly simplified to:
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) / 2) + (Y+ Y)/2 - 125
And further simplified to:
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) / 2) + Y - 125
Now focusing within the braces, we can apply the division-by-2 to the 250.
Z = (((X x 80) + 1) x 250/2) + Y - 125
Which further simplifies to:
Z = (((X x 80) + 1) x 125) + Y - 125
Now focusing within the braces, we can apply the multiply-by-125 to the two elements.
Z = (((X x 80) x 125) + (1 x 125)) + Y - 125
Which simplifies to:
Z = (((X x 80) x 125) + 125) + Y - 125
And further simplifies to:
Z = (X x 80 x 125) + 125 + Y - 125
And further simplifies to:
Z = (X x 10,000) + Y
Which of course, is what we were after. Now, if only I had a better recall of integrals, matrices and the other joys of high school algebra.
I decided that I’d try to decode the mysteries of this trick and, in doing so, perhaps refresh some of my early high school algebra. Since my sons will soon enter high school and may want some math help from yours truly, it seemed like a fun and perhaps helpful exercise.
Here’s the email:
Here is a math trick so unbelievable that it will stump you. Personally I would like to know who came up with this and why that person is not running the country.
1. Grab a calculator. (you won't be able to do this one in your head)
2. Key in the first three digits of your phone number (NOT the Area code)
3. Multiply by 80
4. Add 1
5. Multiply by 250
6. Add the last 4 digits of your phone number
7. Add the last 4 digits of your phone number again.
8. Subtract 250
9. Divide number by 2
Do you recognize the answer?
The answer is, of course, your seven digit phone number. Here’s an example, using the number 765-4321 for illustration purposes.
The first three digits are 765.
765 x 80 = 61,200
Add 1 to get 61,201
61201 x 250 = 15,300,250
Add the last four digits, or 4321, to get 15,304,571
Add the last four digits, or 4321, again to get 15,308,892
Subtract 250 to yield 15,308,642
Divide by 2 and we’re back to 7,654,321, or 765-4321
Very cool!
So, how does it work?
Well, clearly there are two variables: the first three digits of the phone number and the last four digits of the phone number. I called these “X” and “Y” respectively. The entire phone number I called “Z”.
Quickly you can see that the formula for z is:
Z = (X x 10,000) + Y
Why 10,000? Well, because we have to move the first three digits, or X, over to the left by four spaces/digits. We then add the last four digits, or Y.
So, in our example:
Z = (765 x 10,000) + 4,321 … which equals … 7,650,000 + 4,321 … which equals … 7,654,321 or 765-4321
Thus, our formula works. Indeed, Z = (X x 10,000) + Y.
My next step was to translate the directions in the email into an expression. Here it is:
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) + Y + Y - 250) / 2
Now all I had to do was adjust or simplify the above expression, as presented in the email, to Z = (X x 10,000) + Y.
I started by applying the division-by-2 to all elements within the braces.
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) / 2) + Y/2 + Y/2 - 250/2
This can be quickly simplified to:
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) / 2) + (Y+ Y)/2 - 125
And further simplified to:
Z = ((((X x 80) + 1) x 250) / 2) + Y - 125
Now focusing within the braces, we can apply the division-by-2 to the 250.
Z = (((X x 80) + 1) x 250/2) + Y - 125
Which further simplifies to:
Z = (((X x 80) + 1) x 125) + Y - 125
Now focusing within the braces, we can apply the multiply-by-125 to the two elements.
Z = (((X x 80) x 125) + (1 x 125)) + Y - 125
Which simplifies to:
Z = (((X x 80) x 125) + 125) + Y - 125
And further simplifies to:
Z = (X x 80 x 125) + 125 + Y - 125
And further simplifies to:
Z = (X x 10,000) + Y
Which of course, is what we were after. Now, if only I had a better recall of integrals, matrices and the other joys of high school algebra.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Memphis Newsletter
I read the Monthly Member Newsletter from Parmasters Memphis this morning. It won’t be long before we at Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo are publishing something similar.
It was good to see that Parmasters Memphis is making great progress. It wasn’t all that long ago that I attended their grand opening. And now, in this September Newsletter, they’ve initiated their first member survey, gathering feedback in the interests of improving constantly.
They’ve also just hired a Manager of Member Support and a Manager of Marketing. I’m sure these new team members are already bringing a wealth of energy to the most amazing indoor golf training center in Memphis, in the United States, and yes, in the world!
I was also impressed to read that the Kaizen Korner (aka pro shop) at Parmasters Memphis is now carrying the Argon Putter Training System. The Argon hails from beautiful New Hamburg, Ontario. I blogged about it recently here.
The team at Parmasters Memphis, lead by owners Mike Allen and Mario Bertagna, have been leading the charge within the Parmasters system. They opened the first center and that’s a massive understatement. The center they built is second to none! The videos you see on the Parmasters website come from Memphis. They’ve done a great job, and a great service to the Parmasters system, and all future Parmasters members and clients.
It was good to see that Parmasters Memphis is making great progress. It wasn’t all that long ago that I attended their grand opening. And now, in this September Newsletter, they’ve initiated their first member survey, gathering feedback in the interests of improving constantly.
They’ve also just hired a Manager of Member Support and a Manager of Marketing. I’m sure these new team members are already bringing a wealth of energy to the most amazing indoor golf training center in Memphis, in the United States, and yes, in the world!
I was also impressed to read that the Kaizen Korner (aka pro shop) at Parmasters Memphis is now carrying the Argon Putter Training System. The Argon hails from beautiful New Hamburg, Ontario. I blogged about it recently here.
The team at Parmasters Memphis, lead by owners Mike Allen and Mario Bertagna, have been leading the charge within the Parmasters system. They opened the first center and that’s a massive understatement. The center they built is second to none! The videos you see on the Parmasters website come from Memphis. They’ve done a great job, and a great service to the Parmasters system, and all future Parmasters members and clients.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
A System for Golf Instruction
“Golfers' handicaps remain stagnant, despite improvements in equipment, course conditions and advances in the science of the swing. According to the National Golf Foundation data from 2005, the average handicap index for men has remained about 15 and for women about 23 for decades.” (From The perfect swing is all in my head, by Lorne Rubenstein, 31 August 2007, Globe and Mail.)
Rubenstein goes on to lament that two great teachers recently gave him diametrically opposite advice. “[Renowned golf instructor David] Leadbetter examined my swing a few years ago and said, ‘With the shape of your swing, I wouldn't try to do anything but fade the ball.’ Not long after that, I joined Chuck Cook for a game. Cook, the late Payne Stewart's swing coach, said nothing about my swing until we reached the 14th hole at the National, Canada's ultimate examination of one's game. … ‘You know, I've been watching the shape of your swing,’ Cook said, ‘and if I were you, I wouldn't try to do anything but hook the ball.’”
You can find the entire article here.
I blogged in June about an Ontario Golf magazine article by Ted McIntyre in which he argued that the average handicap index was being inflated by more challenging courses, the influx of new golfers, etc.
At Parmasters, we guarantee results.
- If you have an established handicap, we guarantee 25% off that handicap, and
- If you’re a golfer without an established handicap we guarantee 25% off your handicap equivalent.
- Even if you’re a new golfer, we guarantee twenty strokes off your score!!
This is one of the many reasons why I’m so excited and happy to be the local Parmasters franchise owner!
When you come to Parmasters KW to learn, whether you are starting from scratch, or trying to improve on scratch, you will never here conflicting advice from our coaches. We have a system for teaching. And we use that teaching system to teach you a system for hitting the ball straight. So when you leave, yes, you will have a system that will allow you to consistently hit the ball straight.
Our Chief Pro and Co-founder, Scott Hazledine, has been teaching Straight-line Golf™ for more than a dozen years. He’s always offered a 40% reduction in handicap, or your money back. No one has ever asked for their money back!
You can find some testimonials here.
Will the rapid growth of Parmasters and the rapid adoption of Straight-line Golf lead to a reduction in the overall average handicap index? Will Lorne Rubenstein write an article in ten years to that effect? I’m not sure. McIntyre may be correct; perhaps the average handicap index is a jaded metric.
But, on an individual level, will we at Parmasters KW improve the golf games of our students? Absolutely, by at least 25%, guaranteed!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
You See What You Look For
"To a large degree, the world around you is a mirror of that which is within you. You see what you look for. People treat you as you expect to be treated. The things you experience come from the actions you take. With your thoughts and actions you can make it what you want it to be."
-Ralph Marston
-Ralph Marston
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Focus On A Target
I’ve just returned from a late afternoon practice. The range and practice area were fairly busy, which is good to see. We still have several months left in the season.
Today was fairly quiet. Not too many calls made or received, and no meetings, which is very rare these days. It was a good opportunity to bear down on a variety of office work that required my attention. I made a lot of progress on many fronts. Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo is quickly becoming a reality. We'll open for business this coming winter!
This past Sunday morning I played Foxwood Country Club with an old friend and two new friends. As we made our way around the eighteen holes, I was struck by a thought. For the bulk of my 17 years of golfing, I’ve focused on the dangers that lurk left and right of each fairway and green, rather than focusing on my target. This was quite a revelation!
On just about every tee block, I’ve looked out at the hole before me and considered all of the dangers. Then, as I approach the ball and prepare to swing, my thought pattern has revolved around avoiding the dangers. To put it mildly, that’s terrible!
I should, to state the obvious, be focusing on my target. Those in the know say it’s not even enough to pick out a bunker off in the distance as a target, or a large piece of fairway. Experts agree, your target should be very small and very specific. You can use that bunker as a target, but only the right edge, or the left edge, or that little section of sand that juts out somewhere. Or perhaps your target is a tree. If so, it can’t be the entire tree, branches and all, but must focus down to the trunk.
I’ve decided to really work on this. I know it will be a long, uphill battle. Seventeen years is a long time. Thus, I’m sure this bad habit is very deeply engrained.
And clearly I won’t ignore the various dangers on every hole. Far from it. Again, as experts agree, I will consider my various options on each hole and develop a plan for each hole, one after another. Each plan will include very specific targets for each shot.
Then, when it comes time to execute each shot, I will focus exclusively and very intently on my chosen target.
Thus, the dangers are considered, but they’re not the focus.
I’ll try to remember to report back on my progress.
Today was fairly quiet. Not too many calls made or received, and no meetings, which is very rare these days. It was a good opportunity to bear down on a variety of office work that required my attention. I made a lot of progress on many fronts. Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo is quickly becoming a reality. We'll open for business this coming winter!
This past Sunday morning I played Foxwood Country Club with an old friend and two new friends. As we made our way around the eighteen holes, I was struck by a thought. For the bulk of my 17 years of golfing, I’ve focused on the dangers that lurk left and right of each fairway and green, rather than focusing on my target. This was quite a revelation!
On just about every tee block, I’ve looked out at the hole before me and considered all of the dangers. Then, as I approach the ball and prepare to swing, my thought pattern has revolved around avoiding the dangers. To put it mildly, that’s terrible!
I should, to state the obvious, be focusing on my target. Those in the know say it’s not even enough to pick out a bunker off in the distance as a target, or a large piece of fairway. Experts agree, your target should be very small and very specific. You can use that bunker as a target, but only the right edge, or the left edge, or that little section of sand that juts out somewhere. Or perhaps your target is a tree. If so, it can’t be the entire tree, branches and all, but must focus down to the trunk.
I’ve decided to really work on this. I know it will be a long, uphill battle. Seventeen years is a long time. Thus, I’m sure this bad habit is very deeply engrained.
And clearly I won’t ignore the various dangers on every hole. Far from it. Again, as experts agree, I will consider my various options on each hole and develop a plan for each hole, one after another. Each plan will include very specific targets for each shot.
Then, when it comes time to execute each shot, I will focus exclusively and very intently on my chosen target.
Thus, the dangers are considered, but they’re not the focus.
I’ll try to remember to report back on my progress.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Mentoring
I’ve been thinking a lot about mentors lately. Specifically, I’m considering approaching one or two individuals to see if they would lend their expertise, as a mentor. I would hope to meet with each regularly, perhaps monthly, or bi-weekly, to discuss challenges, successes and new opportunities.
I set time aside this past Saturday to build a short list of potential candidates. Obviously I’m considering their business and life experience, how well we get along, whether they can spare the time, etc.
I’ve enjoyed great relationships with mentors in the past, whether they were formally declared as such or not. I’ve also mentored others, both formally – having been asked to mentor – and informally, which just happens.
I’ve also worked with advisory boards in the past. A good advisory board can be like a mentor. In my case, my advisors helped launch a business and kept me focused on the most critical tasks. Sometimes they were gentle and, well, nurturing. At other times they were brutally honest, and even angry. At all times, they cared and were very much engaged.
I’m looking for the same dynamic from any mentor that I approach. I’m looking for honesty. A kind and positive word when appropriate. A kick in the butt when appropriate.
My only concern as I take this path is ensuring that the time is well spent and well worth it, both for me and for the mentor. I will receive business coaching. The mentor will receive the satisfaction of having helped, and perhaps a free breakfast periodically.
However, if I don’t listen to the coaching, or don’t follow at least some of the advice offered, them I’m not really receiving business coaching. And, in that case, my mentor clearly won’t receive any satisfaction from having helped.
Thus, clearly, it’s back to my list. It’s critically important that I approach the right individual. Hopefully he’ll say yes.
I set time aside this past Saturday to build a short list of potential candidates. Obviously I’m considering their business and life experience, how well we get along, whether they can spare the time, etc.
I’ve enjoyed great relationships with mentors in the past, whether they were formally declared as such or not. I’ve also mentored others, both formally – having been asked to mentor – and informally, which just happens.
I’ve also worked with advisory boards in the past. A good advisory board can be like a mentor. In my case, my advisors helped launch a business and kept me focused on the most critical tasks. Sometimes they were gentle and, well, nurturing. At other times they were brutally honest, and even angry. At all times, they cared and were very much engaged.
I’m looking for the same dynamic from any mentor that I approach. I’m looking for honesty. A kind and positive word when appropriate. A kick in the butt when appropriate.
My only concern as I take this path is ensuring that the time is well spent and well worth it, both for me and for the mentor. I will receive business coaching. The mentor will receive the satisfaction of having helped, and perhaps a free breakfast periodically.
However, if I don’t listen to the coaching, or don’t follow at least some of the advice offered, them I’m not really receiving business coaching. And, in that case, my mentor clearly won’t receive any satisfaction from having helped.
Thus, clearly, it’s back to my list. It’s critically important that I approach the right individual. Hopefully he’ll say yes.
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